The Liverpudlian, who is on course for an all-British grudge match with Tyson Fury in 2013, took his professional record to 15 wins and 13 knockouts after flooring Skelton with a series of powerful shots to the body.

After being rocked by big right hand from the former British and European champion, Price soon looked comfortable, settling into the opening round as Skelton received a warning for using his head.

Price began to find his range in the second, and he unleashed a barrage of shots to Skelton's head and body, and eventually landed a left hook which sent his opponent crashing to the canvas. Referee Ritchie Davis began the count, but Skelton's corner had already thrown in the towel.

"He took me by surprise," Price admitted. "I've made a bit of a statement taking him out inside two rounds. Nobody's ever done that before."